With globalization, the impact of anti-dumping sanctions on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has garnered increasing attention. Combining Threat Rigidity Theory and the Upper Echelons Perspective, this study examines how anti-dumping sanctions affect CSR performance in Chinese firms through resource allocation and strategic adjustments, as well as the moderating role of female directors. Using data from Chinese listed firms (2010–2016), we find that sanctions significantly reduce CSR investment toward secondary stakeholders, with the effect amplified in firms with higher proportions of female directors. However, this negative impact is mitigated when a greater proportion of female directors have international experience. The findings highlight female directors’ risk-averse tendencies under external threats while showcasing the balancing effect of international perspectives.
